THE shocking state of a stray dog prompted members of the public to call in RSPCA inspectors - and not a moment too soon.

The neglected German Shepherd was spotted wandering in the Sevenfields area.

And by the time help arrived it was barely able to stand and was so thin that it's ribs were visible.

Byron, as he was named by his rescuers, was taken to Drove Veterinary Hospital, fed and treated for mange and fleas.

Now Swindon's council's dog warden and the RSPCA are keen to trace the owner with a view to a possible prosecution in mind.

"The dog is in poor condition and nearly bald," said Alison Waine, the council's animal officer.

"Byron weighs 29kg but should weigh a lot more than that, although it is hard to say exactly how much. He is definitely underweight. He is quite frail and has little or no energy. He looks in a very uncomfortable state with sores all over his body."

It is thought that the German Shepherd is fairly old, possibly eight to 10 years. He was found on Wednesday. Glyn Eamus is a dog warden for the council and she dealt with the case.

The former Thames Valley police officer said: "I dealt with a number of dogs during my time in the police but I have never seen a dog in this condition. It looks like he has been neglected long term.

"His skin is leathery and I'm sure he has been scratching his body. He appears to be resting very well and eating well with no sickness or diarrhoea, so he's keeping the food down which is encouraging."

Drove Vets nurse Sophie Thomson said: "We have cleaned up his sore front leg and bandaged it up. We are also treating his flea allergy. Byron is lovely natured with a nice temperament, which is amazing considering what he has been through."

He will stay with the vets for the next week before being sent to a rescue centre.

The RSPCA is keen to trace his owner and if anyone has any information they are urged to contact the RSPCA on its North Wiltshire Cruelty line on 0870 55 55 999.

Also contact the dog warden on 01793 466068. Alternatively email dog warden@swindon.gov.uk